1 & 2 Weeks Pregnant: Ovulation, Conception & Your Due Date

In weeks 1 and 2, you're not actually pregnant yet. Pregnancy is counted from the first day of your last period, so these two weeks cover your period and the lead-up to ovulation. If you conceive this cycle, fertilisation usually happens right around the end of week 2.

Why you're not pregnant in weeks 1 and 2

It's hard to pinpoint exactly when an egg is fertilised, but most people know when their last period started. So doctors and midwives count pregnancy from that date. It means the 40 weeks of pregnancy include about two weeks before you conceive.

Based on a 28-day cycle. If your cycle is longer or shorter, ovulation moves too. It usually happens about 14 days before your next period is due.

How your due date is worked out

Your estimated due date is 40 weeks (280 days) from the first day of your last period. This assumes a 28-day cycle, so if your cycles are longer or shorter, your date may shift a little. Your doctor or midwife may adjust it after an early dating ultrasound.

A due date is an estimate, not a deadline. Only a small number of babies arrive on the day, and birth anywhere between 37 and 42 weeks is common.

Your fertile window

You can get pregnant on about six days each cycle: the five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. That's because sperm can survive for up to five days, while an egg lives for only 12 to 24 hours after it's released. Having sex in the few days before ovulation gives you the best chance of conceiving.

Signs you're about to ovulate

• Changes in cervical mucus. It becomes clearer, wetter and stretchy, a bit like raw egg white.
• Mild twinges. Some people feel a dull ache or twinge on one side of the lower tummy.
• A positive ovulation test. Home kits detect the hormone surge that happens a day or two before ovulation.
• A small rise in temperature. Your resting temperature goes up slightly after ovulation, so tracking it over a few cycles shows your pattern.

Getting your body ready

Folic acid

Folic acid lowers the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Australian guidelines recommend taking 400 micrograms a day for at least one month before you conceive and for the first three months of pregnancy. Some people need a higher dose, so ask your GP what's right for you.

Iodine

Iodine supports your baby's brain development. A daily supplement of 150 micrograms is recommended if you're planning a pregnancy, pregnant or breastfeeding. Many pregnancy multivitamins include both folic acid and iodine. Talk to your GP first if you have a thyroid condition.

Alcohol, smoking and vaping

Australian guidelines say not drinking alcohol is the safest choice when you're trying to conceive. Stopping smoking and vaping lowers the risk of miscarriage, premature birth and low birth weight. Quitline (13 7848) offers free support.

Medications and a preconception check-up

Check any prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines and supplements with your GP or pharmacist before you try to conceive. A preconception check-up is also a good time to review your vaccinations, make sure your cervical screening is up to date and talk through any existing health conditions.

Helpful for this stage

Weeks 1 and 2 FAQs